Wichita Reopens Arkansas River for Recreation

Associated Press - August 23, 2013 12:42 pm

Officials say recreation is again permitted on the Arkansas River through downtown Wichita.

Recreation was prohibited for the last two weeks because the water was too high. The city’s recreation director, Doug Kupper, said Friday the water level had dropped enough to allow canoes and kayaks back on the river.

But he warns the water flow rate is still 2,000 cubic feet per minute – far above the ususal 300 feet per minute – and warned the public to be careful on the water.

Kupper says recreational users should stay away from the river between Kellogg and 21st Street because crews have not repaired damage on the Lincoln Street dam, where there are dangerous currents.